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Different Types of Server for/on the Internet

A server is a computer that manages resources on a network. There are different types of servers that are available for different needs. Servers that are used to store files are called file servers, and those used to save data are known as database servers. Other types of servers are application servers, proxy servers, web servers, virtual servers, and dedicated servers. A client/server network is formed between the server and the client using routing systems and centralized access to resources.

Application Servers
Application servers are used to distribute and deliver public news groups. These servers are dedicated to running certain applications. Application servers act as middleware and collect information from a data base to process web applications. They usually act as a connecting link between database and end user. These servers are used for site navigation, business portals, CRM, supply chain management, and e-commerce.

Database Servers
A database is a server that is used to store a company’s vital information. You can access the stored data at any time. Database servers have a Database Management System (DBMS) that use various software applications to modify, store, and extract information. These servers access and retrieve data from the data base in a logical and methodical manner.

File Server
A file server is a computer that provides storage space for documents, sound files, movies, images, databases, and photographs. These servers have two kinds of workstations: dedicated and non-dedicated. Multiple disks drives are arranged together to form a disk array where vital information is stored. File servers not only provide space for data storage, but also security to protect the data.

Proxy Server
A proxy server acts as a mediator between a client program and an external server. It filters requests, shares connections, and improves the performance of the web application. When a resource is requested by a client from a different server, the proxy server evaluates the request and then retrieves the information from the external server.

Web Server
A web server loads a file from a disk and adds it to the network through a web browser. This data exchange is between the browser and server takes place through HyperText Transfer Protocol (HTTP) or File Transfer Protocol (FTP).

Virtual Server
Virtual servers are also known as Virtual Private Servers (VPS). With such servers, the physical server is partitioned into many servers. Each partition has the capability of running its own dedicated systems. These servers bridge the gap between dedicated and shared web hosting services. Virtual servers offer both managed and unmanaged hosting services.

Dedicated Servers
Also known as dedicated hosting servers or managed hosting servers, dedicated servers are leased by a particular client. These servers are not shared with others, and you have full control over the server. Large companies that have substantial data, choose dedicated servers to host their websites. With a dedicated hosting service, you can even purchase your own hardware for the hosting service provider to maintain and manage.